Golden Redhorse
Golden Redhorse (Moxostoma erythrurum) are native suckers found throughout Minnesota's river systems and some connected lakes.
Scientific Name: Moxostoma erythrurum
These fish average 12-18 inches and 1-2 pounds, though specimens can reach 26 inches and 4-5 pounds. They're distinguished by golden scales on their sides, olive-colored backs, white bellies, and slate gray tail fins.
Fishing in Minnesota
Mississippi River
Sauk River
Rum River
Lake Minnetonka
Mille Lacs Lake
Crow River
Snake River
Little Rock Lake
Julia Lake
Long Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Golden Redhorse inhabit varied freshwater environments including river systems and connected lakes. They prefer clean streams and rivers with gravel, rock, sand, or silt substrates, and are less sensitive to poor water quality than other redhorse species.Key Locations
Mississippi River system, tributaries like Rush Creek, Pine Creek, Spring Valley Creek, South Branch Root River, and Lower Tamarack River. Also present in lakes connected to river systems, particularly in southeastern Minnesota counties like Winona and Fillmore. In Minnesota's southeastern trout streams like those in Winona County.Specific Spots
Fish in pools with sand and silt substrates, focusing on areas below riffles and around rocky structures. Golden Redhorse often hold in deeper pools and slack water areas near current breaks.Golden Redhorse FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Golden Redhorse in Minnesota?
Fresh red worms are the most effective bait - whole pieces work better than cut segments.
When is the best time to fish for Golden Redhorse in Minnesota?
Early spring when water reaches 42°F and fall provide the best opportunities, avoiding the April-May spawning period.
How do you catch Golden Redhorse in Minnesota?
Fish several inches off the bottom using current and line tension to swing bait toward them. Wade quietly downstream and cast upstream of visible fish when possible. They respond well to patient, bottom-fishing techniques rather than active presentations.
What do Golden Redhorse eat?
Golden Redhorse are bottom-feeders with protrusible mouths that consume larval insects, small mollusks, microcrustaceans, aquatic invertebrates, detritus, and algae.
Where do Golden Redhorse live in Minnesota?
Golden Redhorse inhabit varied freshwater environments including river systems and connected lakes. They prefer clean streams and rivers with gravel, rock, sand, or silt substrates, and are less sensitive to poor water quality than other redhorse species.
Fish smarter with real-time insights
Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.
See it in the app
Most maps show you water.
onWater shows you Golden Redhorse.
- 01 · Species map filter
Map every Golden Redhorse water
Pick Golden Redhorse and the map zeroes in on the waters they call home. No more guessing which lake holds them.
- 02 · Waterbody species
Tap any water. See what lives there.
Species, behavior and seasonal patterns for every lake, river and pond, before you leave the driveway.
- 03 · Angler Intelligence
Ask how to catch Golden Redhorse
Tactics, gear and timing from onWater's AI fishing guide, tuned to the species and the water you're on.
Stop guessing where Golden Redhorse are.
Open the map, filter by Golden Redhorse, and head to water that holds them. Download onWater and plan your next trip in minutes.
- Species map filter
- Angler Intelligence
- Fishing journal
Explore other species
Trout, bass, salmon, panfish and everything in between. Each guide unpacks the behavior, seasons, and tactics that put fish in the net.
No species information available.
Minnesota licenses and regulations
Explore nearby waters
Explore Minnesota waters
Top fishing waters
Popular Cities
Loading popular cities...
Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.
onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.